BENGALURU: On a day another rape was reported in Bengaluru, officials of the Transport Department advised commuters to avoid boarding private buses and maxi-cabs at night.
Carrying out intensive checks, RTO officials have booked several private buses, maxi-cabs, taxis, Tempo Travelers and cars for violating rules. Many vehicles sported tinted windows and defective number plates. Some used curtains and did not carry valid documents.
Rame Gowda, Transport Commissioner, said, “We are keeping constant vigil on private vehicles. People should avoid using private maxi-cabs and private buses, in the interest of their own safety. We are also keeping a tab on vehicles without valid permits picking up passengers.”
A RTO official said Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy had called a meeting and discussed ways and means to make commuting safer.
Suvarna J, who lives near the Silk Board Junction, said, “Many cabs hired by call centres pick up passengers to extra money on the side. It is a dangerous trend and people should avoid boarding them.” She said school buses also illegally ferry passengers.
RTO officials said women should be especially cautious before boarding a vehicle.
They should be wary of private buses with few passengers. “If a bus becomes empty en route, especially during odd hours, they should become more alert,” an official said.
Ways to stay alert
A woman police officer
offers some tips for women to stay safe
■ Avoid boarding strangers’ private vehicles at night.
■ Book a cab or call family or friends if you are unsure.
■ Inform friends or family if you are travelling alone. Keep texting them about your vehicle’s path.
■ Instal an app to send out an alert if you sense danger.
■ Don’t forget to note down the vehicle number.
■ Do not get down in an isolated spot.
■ Carry a pepper spray and learn basic self-defence.
■ Avoid strangers who offer a lift.
■ As you travel, track the route using GPS to make sure the driver is not deviating.